Belfast to Edinburgh bus with National Express

Sat, Aug 29
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Belfast to Edinburgh

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29

Cheapest price on Aug 29

lei337

Average ticket price on Aug 29

lei343

Fastest journey on Aug 29

10 h 40 m

Average journey duration on Aug 29

10 h 40 m

Buses on Aug 29

2

Distance

231 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Belfast to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Belfast to Edinburgh will cost around lei343 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only lei337.

Fast buses

On Sat, Aug 29, we found 2 buses from Belfast to Edinburgh, including 2 direct services.

On Sat, Aug 29 the direct buses cover the 231 km distance in an average of 10 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 h 40 m .

On Sat, Aug 29 the slowest buses will take 10 h 40 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • National Express
    10:20 AM10h40
    Belfast
    9:00 PMEdinburgh
    lei3371One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    9:20 AM10h40
    Belfast
    8:00 PMEdinburgh
    lei3481One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and flight for Belfast to Edinburgh

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Belfast to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of lei333 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 27m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of lei333, while a flight costs an average of lei1844.

Distance: 143 miles (231 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Flight
Driving

lei333

Average price

Cheapest

lei1844

Average price

lei204

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 40m

Average total duration

7h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 27m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 27m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

5h 53m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

National Express

Most popular bus company

British Airways

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Belfast to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of lei333.

This is compared to other travel options from Belfast to Edinburgh:

A bus is lei1511 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Belfast to Edinburgh costing on average lei1844.

The fastest way to travel from Belfast to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 27m.

Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Belfast and Edinburgh including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Belfast to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.

Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.

Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.

Belfast to Edinburgh Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:20AM
Arrival Time
08:00PM
Duration
10h40
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
lei335
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:20AM
Arrival Time
09:00PM
Duration
10h40
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
lei334

Itineraries from Belfast to Edinburgh by bus

Dublin

Ireland & Scotland Itinerary: A 7-Day Journey Through Historic Cities

Embark on a 7-day adventure across Ireland and Scotland, exploring the vibrant capitals of Dublin, Belfast, and Edinburgh, with a day trip to Glasgow. This itinerary combines rich history, cultural immersion, and scenic travel by bus and train.

  1. 1Dublin
  2. 2Belfast
  3. 3Edinburgh
Plan this bus itinerary
Dublin

Ireland & Scotland in 9 Days: A Celtic Journey from Dublin to Edinburgh

Embark on a 9-day adventure through Ireland and Scotland, starting in Dublin and traveling through Galway and Belfast before concluding in Edinburgh. This itinerary combines vibrant city explorations with scenic intercity travel, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes.

  1. 1Dublin
  2. 2Galway
  3. 3Belfast
  4. 4Edinburgh
Plan this bus itinerary

Live departures

Belfast to Edinburgh bus times

The table below shows live departures for Belfast to Edinburgh buses for tomorrow, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National Express9:20 AM Belfast
10h40
8:00 PM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect
National Express10:20 AM Belfast
10h40
9:00 PM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Belfast to Edinburgh by bus or flight

Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

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Aug 29
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Why should you book Belfast to Edinburgh buses with Omio?

National Express operates all buses services from Belfast to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Belfast to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Belfast to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Belfast to Edinburgh.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Belfast to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Belfast to Edinburgh run on average 1 times per day, taking around 7h 10m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at lei325 but you can travel from only lei86 by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 06:30, the last at 10:20. The fastest bus covers the 143 miles (231 km) distance in 7h 10m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from lei86
Distance
143 miles (231 km)
Average bus duration
7h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
lei325
Buses per day
1
Fastest bus
7h 10m
First bus
6:30 AM
Last bus
10:20 AM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
42 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from lei86

Bus providers: National Express from Belfast to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Belfast to Edinburgh with National Express for as low as lei86. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average National Express Duration
7h 10m
Cheapest National Express Price
lei325
National Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Learn more about National Express

Complete guide to Edinburgh

Things to do in Edinburgh

Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.

  • Must visit

National Museum of Scotland

Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.

View on mapVisit website
  • Must visit

National Gallery of Scotland

Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.

View on mapVisit website
  • Recommended

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.

View on mapVisit website

British pound sterling (£)

Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels surge in festival season, dining is mid-to-high, and transit is reasonable but not especially cheap for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for coffee.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.

FAQs: Bus from Belfast to Edinburgh

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Belfast to Edinburgh by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Belfast to Edinburgh can start from as little as lei325 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Belfast to Edinburgh is lei333 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Belfast to Edinburgh is 7h 10m to travel the 143 miles (231 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Belfast to Edinburgh leaves at 6:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Belfast to Edinburgh leaves at 10:20 AM.
There are 1 buses a day from Belfast to Edinburgh which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Belfast to Edinburgh, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Belfast and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Edinburgh from Belfast is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Belfast to Edinburgh is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Belfast and Edinburgh including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Edinburgh are:
  • Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and housing the Crown Jewels
  • Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano providing hiking trails and a vantage point over Edinburgh
  • The Royal Mile, a historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, lined with shops and landmarks
  • Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, featuring beautiful gardens and historic architecture
  • The National Museum of Scotland, a museum showcasing Scottish history, culture, and natural history through diverse exhibits.
The best things to do in Edinburgh include:
  • Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, a historic marketplace with pubs, shops, and street performances
  • Enjoy a ghost tour through the haunted streets and underground vaults of Edinburgh
  • Attend a performance at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, known for its diverse range of shows
  • Visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, offering beautiful landscapes and plant collections
  • Discover the hidden gems and local art at the Stockbridge Market.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Belfast to Edinburgh depends on the bus companies:
  • National Express
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Belfast to Edinburgh:
  • National Express
    • Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Belfast to Edinburgh:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Belfast to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Belfast nor Edinburgh are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Belfast to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Edinburgh, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Royal Mile and public transport. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxi drivers who don’t use the meter. It’s advisable to use licensed taxis and keep belongings secure in busy spots. Avoid unlicensed ticket sellers near popular attractions to prevent fraud.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Belfast to Edinburgh

Most Belfast to Edinburgh buses use the Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Belfast and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Belfast
Arrival bus stations in Edinburgh
Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington StreetUpper Queen Street, Belfast BT1 6PU, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street from Belfast city centre

Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street is 1 km from Belfast city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G, 3H, 3J, 4C, 4D, 4E, 5A, 5B, 5C, 6A, 6D, 6E, 12, 511 · 7m · every ~36 min

Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street bus station facilities and services

Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street. ATMs are available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street: Accessibility features not detailed.

More options for your journey from Belfast to Edinburgh

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Return journeys for buses from Edinburgh to Belfast
Trains from Belfast to Edinburgh
Flights from Belfast to Edinburgh
Compare all journeys between Belfast and Edinburgh
Tickets and more information for coaches to Belfast
Tickets and more information for coaches to Edinburgh

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